FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BOZEMAN, MT  – Casting for Recovery (CfR), the national nonprofit providing healing outdoor retreats for women with breast cancer, is proud to announce that Ronetta Keeter Briggs has been appointed as Board Chair, along with the addition of four distinguished new trustees: John Haas, Matt Pistorio, Beverly Smith, and Whitney Milhoan, former Executive Director of CfR. This esteemed group brings invaluable expertise, passion, and dedication as CfR embarks on its 29th year of providing life-changing retreats.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ronetta into her new leadership role and to have John, Matt, Beverly, and Whitney join our board,” said Susan Gaetz, Executive Director of Casting for Recovery. “Each of them brings a unique perspective and skill set that will help us expand our impact and reach more women affected by breast cancer and who are in need of support.”

A Dynamic Leadership Team

A dedicated advocate for women with breast cancer, Briggs brings a deep understanding of CfR’s mission, having served on the Board and Executive Committee for the past three years. With her leadership, CfR continues its commitment to enhancing the quality of life of women affected by breast cancer.

“I am honored to step into the role of Board Chair for Casting for Recovery,” said Briggs. “This organization has profoundly impacted my life and the lives of so many women. I look forward to working alongside our inspiring board and staff to further CfR’s mission and expand its reach.”

Joining the board are:

John Haas, a seasoned construction and development professional with 35 years of experience, currently based in Big Sky, Montana. John is the founder of the Spanish Peaks Community Foundation, which contributes nearly $1 million annually to the local community. A lifelong fly fisherman and philanthropist, John’s passion for the outdoors and his early support of CfR events underscore his commitment to the organization’s mission.

Matt Pistorio, founder of Madison Rose Leasing Company and a Principal at R2 Companies, brings over 17 years of leadership in commercial real estate and a deeply personal connection to the CfR mission. After his wife Gina’s breast cancer diagnosis in 2016, the Pistorio family became active supporters of Casting for Recovery, raising nearly $750,000 through their annual Moonlight event in Chicago. An avid fly fisherman, Matt is passionate about helping more women access CfR’s therapeutic retreats.

Beverly Smith, Vice President for Engagement at Trout Unlimited (TU), brings 17 years of conservation leadership to the board. She leads national initiatives that inspire and mobilize TU’s diverse volunteer network to restore and protect lands and waters. Beverly believes deeply in the connection between community-driven conservation and personal healing, making her a natural fit for CfR’s mission.

Whitney Milhoan, former Executive Director of CfR, returns to the organization with nearly 20 years of strategic management experience in health-focused organizations. She currently serves as the Director of Student Health Services at Montana State University and holds an MBA with a concentration in Executive Healthcare Administration. Whitney’s continued dedication to wellness and the outdoors is a welcome asset to CfR.

Looking Ahead to 2025: Serving More Women Than Ever

With this strengthened leadership team, CfR is poised for another impactful year. In 2025, the organization will host retreats serving women from all 50 states continuing its mission of providing support, community, and the healing power of nature to women at all stages of breast cancer.

“Entering our 29th year, we are more committed than ever to reaching underserved communities and expanding our retreat offerings,” added Gaetz. “With the guidance of our board and the support of our dedicated volunteers and donors, we look forward to another transformative year.”

For more information about Casting for Recovery, upcoming retreats, or ways to support the mission, visit www.castingforrecovery.org.